On Solitude

Posted on May 31, 2003 in Crosstalk Reflections

While following the ripples from a dip in the Praire Point blogrolling pool, I came across an article by Fred of Fragments from Floyd who got to musing about the value of solitude.

It has been necessary for me, as of late, to offset the influence of my solitude with trips out of the condo. I live on the edge of a national forest here in California. Though I am surrounded by people, I spend much of my time encased in my office or under the covers in bed. In these places, I write, but what is writing if you remain seated or stay in your bed? So I go out, often in the company of my wife, to meet the world for a few hours every day.

Solitude appeals to those who can find no other way to create, I discover: those like us are so few and far between, I think we forget that we can enjoy the company of others. It’s a maxim for many that you must be alone to write well, but I have been finding that some of my most astounding recent work is written in the company of others who are also writing.

It is hardest to find like minds in remote areas. I’ve had an easier time of it living on the edge of the Los Angeles metropolis, intercalated between the subdivisions and the chaparral. I can migrate either way as it suits me. When I must find other people, I point the truck south. When I need my own thoughts, I either stay inside or walk two blocks to the Whiting Ranch Wilderness trailhead.

fred titles his blog bit “Are you alone(r)?” I would answer “No. I’m just a human being with a rare perspective.” I’ve learned to live alone, at times, because my type is so rare. But with a little effort, I can have my choice of solitude and good company, a contact with that tip of humanity I love as my wife.